Best Exercise for Increasing Cardio!

Best Exercise for Increasing Cardio!

Athletes are always trying to get an edge when it comes to training. Good training equals good results in competition.

Cross training has been around for many years. There are hundreds if not thousands of opinions and options when it comes to cross training and how to use it efficiently.

I’ve used cross training for all the athletes I’ve had as clients and found one to be extremely beneficial went it comes to increasing stamina and cardiovascular endurance.

Drum roll please….

KICKBOXING!

That’s right. Kickboxing provides a full body, cardio workout unmatched by other methods.

I’ve seen an increase in speed and muscle development, which leads to faster athletes in every sport we’ve used kickboxing as part of a training program.

Runners from 5k to marathoners have taken time off their PR’s after combining kickboxing workouts with their overall training.

Cyclists, rugby and hockey players have seen an increase in output without an increase in HR (heart rate).

Although they may not be seen as athletes, singers and musicians I’ve trained have greater lung capacity and for those playing in long concerts have found that kickboxing keeps them from fatiguing during shows.

Why does it work so well?

To start, most kickboxing workouts and techniques use all the major muscle groups.

There aren’t too many times where only one muscle group is isolated. For example, when punching, it’s not just an upper body motion. The core(abs), hips and legs are also engaged.

When executing kicking moves especially kicks at or above waist level increase heart rate fast, thus increase cardio capacity quickly.

The benefits of kickboxing training don’t stop at aerobic endurance kickboxing can help improve hand (foot) – eye coordination. Fat loss and muscle tone can also be contributed to kickboxing and regular training and practice can provide basic self -defense techniques.